Meat-free options exist on the market that are made from soy-meat substitutes, grains and vegetables. Hot dogs are safe to eat during pregnancy, as long as they are cooked over 160 degrees F. Any processed meat, such as hot dogs, salami, or cold cuts, can potentially be contaminated with bacteria during the packaging stage. If you want to avoid risks associated with bacteria or nitrates but still enjoy hot dogs, there are alternatives. While there has been a lot of controversy regarding the effect of nitrates on the human body, there has not been any positive indication that nitrates harm the developing baby. Yet, even if you feel a craving for hot dogs during pregnancy it is better to avoid them, especially if they are not completely heated above 160 degrees Fahrenheit. Packaged hot dogs are usually rich in preservative nitrates and nitrites that can … Hot dogs are also high in fat and salt that are not good for your body or your baby. Luckily, it's easy to satisfy your cravings with healthy, animal-friendly veggie dogs. While there has been a lot of controversy regarding the effect of nitrates on the human body, there has not been any positive indication that nitrates harm the developing baby. They function as preservatives, helping to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. Read More:Are Cold Cuts & Deli Meats Safe in Pregnancy? Even major companies like Oscar Mayer and Ball Park are offering nitrate-free dogs. Are hot dogs without nitrates safe? You are pregnant and you like eating hotdogs. Is It Safe to Eat Sushi While Pregnant?Foods to Avoid During Pregnancy, Dr. Amos Grunebaum, MD, FACOG is a Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and among the world's leading authorities on fertility and pregnancy. Employed in food preservatives, it another factor to consider if you want to eat hot dogs when you are pregnant. Also, the cheese that they are garnished with can harm the pregnant mother and the fetus if it is not pasteurized- bleu cheese, Brie, Camembert, Roquefort, Feta, Gorgonzola and Mexican style cheeses that include queso blanco and queso fresco, for instance, are often not pasteurized and thus are unsafe for pregnant mothers. Human Health Cancer. edemoss member. Hot Dogs Hot dogs are one of the most processed sources of meat on the market. The levels are pretty low, so you would have to take in quite a few hot dogs to do any damage. I think the general rule is one hot dog a week. An additional concern that is associated with the consumption of hot dogs is sodium nitrates. The reason why conventional hot dogs cause cancer is because they contain high levels of nitrates. During the cooking process, nitrites combine with amines naturally present in meat to form carcinogenic N-nitroso compounds. Sodium nitrates and nitrites are compounds manufactured and used as food preservatives to enhance color and extend shelf-life. Sodium Nitrite and Sodium Nitrate are food preservatives used primarily in processed meat products such as hot dogs, luncheon meats, ham, bacon, corned beef (spam), and in smoked fish. The rare, but life-threatening bacterium grows in the tightly packed environments of processed meat. Our new app provides expert, personalized fertility insights and guidance. 1. Do not allow the hot dogs to become cold or you risk further contamination. They are low in fat, low risk of bacterial contamination, and vegetarian-friendly. Hot dogs are safe to eat during pregnancy, as long as they are cooked over 160 degrees F. Any processed meat, such as hot dogs, salami, or cold cuts, can potentially be contaminated with bacteria during the packaging stage. Nitrites and nitrates are added to processed meats like deli meats and hot dogs as a preservative against certain bacteria and to preserve color. And since hot dogs are cured with nitrates, they carry greater health risks than other meat products. Nitrites play several roles: they maintain the pinkish meat coloration. The good news about nitrates and nitrites is that it's easier now to find hot dogs that don't include them. Although it is said that they can be eaten by expectant mothers when heated to 160-170 degrees Fahrenheit for two minutes, you may want to avoid hot dogs during pregnancy as they may still carry the Listeria bacteria. As far as what brand you buy, that is up to you. If you are pregnant and happen to like to eat hot dogs, you probably have heard a few warnings. Applegate's Great Organic Uncured Turkey Hot Dog and Waterhill Naturals Uncured Turkey Hot Dogs … A good example is the meat-free hot dogs rich in vegetables, grains, and soy. Hynes graduated from Florida State University with a Bachelor of Science in foods and nutrition. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, nitrates in hot dogs and other processed meats prevent the spread a deadly toxin called botulism 1. Hot dogs contain sodium that is higher than what is usually allowed during pregnancy. Nitrates also give hot dogs the pinkish brown color you associate with the food. Nitrates and nitrites are frequently added to processed meats like bacon, ham, sausages and hot dogs. The products used in hot dogs often have bacteria and precooking hot dogs and other processed foods will eliminate those bacteria. However I agree – hot dogs are hot dogs and nitrates are nitrates – so it’s important to eat processed meats in small amounts, no matter what kind you buy. Her fitness column appears in the weekly publication, "The Red Springs Citizen." The hot dogs purchased from street vendors are especially dangerous and can be contaminated because the water they are heated in is well below 160 degrees Fahrenheit. The best way to avoid this altogether is to purchase hot dogs that are nitrate free. Sodium nitrites are also associated with causing damage to blood vessels thus increasing the risk for developing heart disease. Amanda Hynes has more than 10 years of professional experience in fitness and wellness. Nitrates and nitrites are key in hot dogs and other cured meats like ham and bacon: they prevent spoilage and block the growth of the bacterium that causes botulism (a foodborne illness).They're types of salts, with nitrates naturally found in many vegetables and converted to nitrites in your body-or in the lab. Also, the cheese that they are garnished with can harm the pregnant mother and the fetus if it is not pasteurized- bleu cheese, Brie, Camembert, Roquefort, Feta, Gorgonzola and Mexican style cheeses that include queso blanco and queso fresco, for instance, are often not pasteurized and thus are unsafe for pregnant mothers. 2. Report 2 Reply. Hot dogs are one of the most processed sources of meat on the market. A. Nitrates are a no-no when pregnant because they can consume carcinogenic nitrosamines in the body. Hot dogs are best avoided during pregnancy when your immune system is weak and you and your baby become vulnerable to foodborne illnesses. Here are a few things to remember before you eat a hot dog during pregnancy. A: In recent years, the level of nitrates contained in processed foods has decreased, and is considered safe for pregnant women. Learn more about Obie here. While hot dogs are safe to eat during pregnancy, they may not be the best choice of food nutritionally if consumed on a regular basis. The World Health Organization (WHO) and many researchers warn against eating too many processed meats because the nitrites and nitrates may increase one’s chances to develop cancer. This bacteria is responsible for causing listeriosis, an infection characterized by flu-like symptoms and gastrointestinal distress. Nitrites and nitrates are added to processed meats like deli meats and hot dogs as a preservative against certain bacteria and to preserve color. There are a lot of people, probably including your doctor, warned you to avoid hot dogs especially during pregnancy because there’s a possibility that you will consume bacteria that comes with it. Hot dogs contain nitrites which are used as preservatives, primarily to combat botulism. Applegate's Great Organic Uncured Turkey Hot Dog and Waterhill Naturals Uncured Turkey Hot Dogs are healthy choices. 1. Reply The Doc December 31, 2018 at 7:46 am. As food preservatives, they prevent the formation of harmful bacteria such as Listeria monocytogenes and Clostridium botulinum. Just in case you are wondering what Sodium nitrates and nitrites are, they are compounds that are manufactured and utilized as food preservatives to both enhance food color and to extend shelf-life. Human Health Cancer. Those particularly susceptible to listeriosis include elderly adults, small children, anyone with weakened immune functions and pregnant women. But is it safe to eat them in small amounts? Most hot dogs contain nitrates (also found in luncheon meat) which are used to help preserve the meat and combat botulism. NaturalNews.com: Processed Meat Consumption Results in 67% Increase in Pancreatic Cancer Risk, Says New Research. Additional concerns associated with hot dog consumption are sodium nitrates. Check out our Zodiac Center! Women are cautioned against consuming ready-to-eat foods such as cold cuts, soft cheeses and hot dogs during pregnancy because of the possibility of consuming harmful bacteria. Whether they are grilled, boiled or microwaved, your hot dogs should be steaming and served hot. I agree with this. There are local health food stores that sell nitrite-free chicken and turkey hot dogs. As food preservatives, they prevent the formation of harmful bacteria such as Listeria monocytogenes and Clostridium botulinum. Sodium Nitrite and Sodium Nitrate are food preservatives used primarily in processed meat products such as hot dogs, luncheon meats, ham, bacon, corned beef (spam), and in smoked fish. 1 2 They are cured using salts that contain high levels of nitrates. Just in case you are wondering what Sodium nitrates and nitrites are, they are compounds that are manufactured and utilized as food preservatives to both enhance food color and to extend shelf-life. If properly prepared (hot off the grill or cooked to at least 165 degrees farenheit), it is safe to assume most of the bacteria has been killed. Sodium Nitrates and hotdog consumption. My baby lived to tell about it I should find some nitrate free hot dogs because I would love to enjoy more! Many popular brands like Oscar Meyer and Ball Park offer nitrate free options. Even major companies like Oscar Mayer and Ball Park are offering nitrate-free dogs. The risk for listeriosis is greatest when consuming uncooked deli meats; if not heated properly, bacteria will continue to thrive. The average hot dog contains about 50 mcg of nitrates per 100 g of meat, which carries about 9 mg of nitrites. Be cautious when eating hot dogs, luncheon meats, or deli meats unless they are properly reheated to steaming (or 160 degrees F.): Eating out at certain restaurants that provide deli meat sandwiches is not recommended for pregnant women since they do not reheat their deli meats. Nitrates are of particular concern with cured meats like hot dogs, says Mariana Stern, a cancer epidemiologist at the University of Southern California. Sodium Nitrates and hotdog consumption An additional concern that is associated with the consumption of hot dogs is sodium nitrates. I wouldn't be too concerned with nitrates unless you plan on eating like 50 hot dogs in one sitting. Properly cooked hot dogs are safe for pregnant women when consumed in moderation. Hot dogs are an American favorite at barbecues, baseball games and social gatherings alike. Nitrites play several roles: they maintain the pinkish meat coloration. As a mom-to-be, you'll want to steer clear of those foods that have been preserved with nitrates and nitrites, chemicals used in food preservation that (in high amounts) aren't good for a developing fetus. Listeria monocytogenes can be destroyed with heat. Nitrates are a no-no when pregnant because they can consume carcinogenic nitrosamines in the body. 2. Hot dogs are high in sodium, nitrates and fats. Nitrates and nitrites are key in hot dogs and other cured meats like ham and bacon: they prevent spoilage and block the growth of the bacterium that causes botulism (a foodborne illness). Other Risks Associated With Hot Dogs During Pregnancy. Also known as frankfurters or wieners, hot dogs are cured meat made from pork, beef or poultry byproducts. I'm actually not a hot dog fan asks maybe eat two a year at a bbq, but when I was pregnant with ds I enjoyed a hot dog at Costco after most of my checkups since Costco was so close. Hot Dogs Alternatives During Pregnancy To eradicate the risk associated with bacteria and sodium nitrate present in hot dogs, you can consider other healthy options. In addition to his current work, Dr. Amos is using his vast experience to launch Obie, a science-based app that offers personalized fertility advice. Sodium nitrates are used to cure the meat as they enhance its flavour, colour and also increases its life on the shelf. ;;) February 2014 EllyD14 said: However, it also contains 12 grams of fat and 500mg of sodium. They can be spicy or mild and may be made from chicken, pork, beef, and turkey. It is also suspected that nitrites can combine with amines in the human stomach to form N-nitroso compounds. Precautions To Consider While Eating Hot dogs During Pregnancy. Though the terms nitrates and nitrites are used interchangeably, the meat industry says it's mainly sodium nitrite that companies currently use to cure meats such as hot dogs, cold cuts and bacon. It’s a deciding factor for many people when they buy processed meat like bacon or lunchmeat, and it’s been hanging out in the back of my mind since I bought all-beef Hebrew National hot dogs last month. Sodium nitrates and nitrites are compounds manufactured and used as food preservatives to enhance color and extend shelf-life. The good news about nitrates and nitrites is that it's easier now to find hot dogs that don't include them. As my family and I prepare to celebrate Labor Day with some delicious hot dogs and homemade buns, it’s hard to shake the thoughts about nitrates. © 2001-2020 BabyMed.com - All Rights Reserved. The best way to avoid this altogether is to purchase hot dogs that are nitrate free. Many popular brands like Oscar Meyer and Ball Park offer nitrate free options. One regular, six-inch hot dog bun alone is known to contain almost 140 calories, 2.5g of fat, 28g carbohydrates, 4g of protein and less than 270mg sodium . In addition to his current work, Dr. Amos is using his vast experience to launch Obie, a science-based app that offers personalized fertility advice. A: Hot dogs or Frankfurters may be fully cooked, cured or smoked. Sodium is not only bad for heart, but in the case of a pregnant woman, it can lead to complications in the delivery and birth defects in the unborn baby. Even though hot dogs are considered precooked, it is important that you cook them sufficiently in order to eliminate the presence of bacteria. Listeriosis is particularly dangerous during pregnancy because it can lead to miscarriage, premature delivery, infection or even death to the baby. She is an avid runner and a certified pilates and yoga instructor who enjoys sharing her enthusiasm for fitness with others. They're types of salts, with nitrates naturally found in many vegetables and converted to nitrites in your body-or in the lab. One beef hot dog contains about 200 calories and 7 grams of protein. As my family and I prepare to celebrate Labor Day with some delicious hot dogs and homemade buns, it’s hard to shake the thoughts about nitrates. One particular bacteria, called Listeria, can pass from a mother to a fetus, causing miscarriage or stillbirth. Listeria monocytogenes is a genus of bacteria found in cold-cut deli meats, soft cheeses, and cured meats. Into astrology? Uncured Hot Dogs. One beef hot dog contains about 200 calories and 7 grams of protein. The purpose of Sodium nitrate in hot dogs is to combat Listeria, which it does do quite effectively, but the chemical has also been linked to heart disease and the possibility of developing pancreatic cancer. Amelia, Nitrates are nitrates, your body processes them the same way regardless of … I'm a hot dog hoar. Look Out for Nitrates. These bacteria cause a disease called Listeriosis which can cause negative effects in the unborn baby which can lead to miscarriage or stillbirth. I ate a hot dog every week in the summer during my pregnancy and I also ate bacon. Hot dogs and deli meat That double turkey, salami and onion with extra mustard might be tempting your pregnancy-crazed appetite, but it may not be the healthiest option out there right now. Trader Joe's nitrate free all beef dogs are amazing. Sodium nitrates are used to cure the meat as they enhance its flavour, colour and also increases its life on the shelf. These vegetarian friendly options are also lower in fat compared to traditional hot dogs. Read Dr. Amos' full bio, the book about him "Lessons in Survival: All About Amos," and a fictionalized account of his father's life in the novel, "Through Walter's Lens.". A study conducted by Dr. Ute Nothlings, et al, in the 2007 Journal of Epidemiology revealed that participants who consumed processed meats in large amounts had a high risk of pancreatic cancer. Additional concerns associated with hot dog consumption are sodium nitrates. They also add a salty flavour and improve the appearance of the meat products by giving them a red or pink color. The World Health Organization (WHO) and many researchers warn against eating too many processed meats because the nitrites and nitrates may increase one’s chances to develop cancer. Although ordering a hot dog at the baseball stadium may be off the menu, this doesn’t mean that you can’t still enjoy hot dogs. Hot dogs and other processed meats have been repeatedly implicated in greatly increased risk of colon cancer. With careful preparation, women may continue to enjoy hot dogs throughout pregnancy without fear of illness. Copyright 2020 Leaf Group Ltd. / Leaf Group Media, All Rights Reserved. Are Cold Cuts & Deli Meats Safe in Pregnancy. The average hot dog contains about 50 mcg of nitrates per 100 g of meat, which carries about 9 mg of nitrites. They seem to be the safer bet but the possibility of contamination cannot be ruled out. Hot dogs are high in sodium, nitrates and fats. Q: I know that while pregnant you should generally avoid foods that contain nitrates, such as hot dogs and luncheon meats. One of the few things I can stomach these days. Often garnished with ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, onion, cheese or chili, they are a delight for your taste buds. Packaged hot dogs are usually rich in preservative nitrates and nitrites that can be harmful. Though the terms nitrates and nitrites are used interchangeably, the meat industry says it's mainly sodium nitrite that companies currently use to cure meats such as hot dogs, cold cuts and bacon. Brands like Applegate Farms sell uncured hot dogs (also sometimes with “no added nitrates”), which are by default healthier than nitrate-filled dogs, which some experts have linked to … Risk, Says hot dogs pregnancy nitrates Research and used as food preservatives, they prevent the formation of harmful such! 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